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Feast Day: July 31
Death: July 1, 31
Blessed Everard Hanse was born in Northamptonshire, England. He was raised in the Protestant faith and received his education at Cambridge University. Deeply committed to his religious beliefs, Everard became an Anglican minister and served in this capacity for several years.
However, in a significant turning point in his life, Everard's near-fatal illness prompted him to reevaluate his life and ministry. Supported by his brother, William, he made the courageous decision to convert to Catholicism in 1568. Seeking to deepen his understanding and practice of his newfound faith, Everard traveled to Rheims, France, where he pursued further studies.
Following his studies, Everard was ordained as a Catholic priest on 25 March 1581. Filled with a fervent desire to minister to covert Catholics in England, he embarked on a journey back to his homeland. Unfortunately, his efforts were quickly thwarted as he was arrested shortly after his arrival in England while visiting Catholic prisoners in the Marshalsea prison. Subsequently, Everard was transferred to Newgate prison in 1581, where he would spend his final days.
Everard Hanse faced trial and was charged with the crime of persuading others to join the Catholic Church and refusing to accept the queen as the head of the Church. Despite his unwavering faith, he was found guilty and condemned to death. On 31 July 1581, Everard was hanged, drawn, and quartered at Tyburn, London, for his refusal to renounce his Catholicism.
Blessed Everard Hanse is commemorated on 31 July and is also recognized as one of the Martyrs of Douai on 29 October. His courageous witness to the Catholic faith in the face of persecution and his dedication to ministering to covert Catholics have made him an inspiration and a model of faith.
Following his martyrdom, Everard's devotion and sacrifice were recognized by the faithful and the Church. Pope Leo XIII beatified him on 29 December 1886, confirming the cultus (reverence) already present for him among the faithful. His beatification serves as a reminder of the enduring faith and strength exhibited by those who suffered for their religious convictions during a tumultuous era in English history.